Thursday, March 12, 2026
Dear Parents, Guardians, and Families of the Near North District School Board,
I am writing to you with gratitude and optimism as we continue our work together in support of students across our system. Strong family/school relationships are at the heart of student success. When families and schools work in partnership — grounded in trust, communication, and shared purpose — our students benefit academically, socially, and emotionally. Your voice, your involvement, and your advocacy matter deeply, and I thank you for the ways you support your children and our schools each day.
I also want to acknowledge the ongoing challenges created by the Alouette Bus Lines strike. We recognize how disruptive this situation has been for many families. Reliable transportation is not simply a convenience — it is an essential service that ensures fair access to learning. Please know that the transportation consortium and School Board continue to be kept updated as the company’s owners and drivers continue to negotiate to reach a fair and prompt agreement. We understand how important this service is to your daily lives and to your children’s education, and we are still hopeful for a positive resolution between the two parties.
Since beginning my role as Director, I have had the privilege of visiting 27 of our 33 schools. I have been consistently impressed by the professionalism, compassion, and commitment of our administrators, educators, and support staff. Their care for students and their broader communities is clear in every school I enter. It has been both inspiring and reassuring to see the dedication that defines our board.
A few weeks back, I had the opportunity to attend a town hall in Parry Sound, where I was pleased to reaffirm to the community that the new school will be open to students this September. This project is an exciting investment in the future of the region, and I look forward to seeing students walk through its doors in the fall.
It is truly a privilege to serve the communities of the Near North. I take this responsibility seriously and remain committed to listening, learning, and leading in ways that strengthen trust and improve outcomes for students.
I would also like to once again extend an invitation to School Council meetings. I deeply value the opportunity to connect directly with families. Please feel free to invite me through your school principal. I have already had the pleasure of attending meetings at Parry Sound High School and Land of Lakes Public School, and I look forward to visiting many more school communities in the months ahead.
Thank you for your continued partnership, your resilience, and your trust. Together, we will continue to create learning environments where every student feels supported, challenged, and valued.
With appreciation,
Jay MacJanet
Director of Education
